There are moments when the numerous changes we go through as we age seem overwhelming. Retirement has special obstacles that many individuals have never encountered before in life, which is why maintaining spiritual wellbeing as you age is so essential. As a fundamental component of overall wellness, spirituality may play a significant role in how well we mature and the satisfaction we experience as we age. Luckily, 55+ communities near Overland Park, KS provide several chances to develop your faith so that you may make the most of your senior living experience.
What Is Spirituality?
Spirituality and religion are fundamentally separate concepts, despite the fact that they have many similarities. Religion is based on a system of principles, rituals, and laws, such as going to church, engaging in some actions, and refraining from others. There is more to spirituality. A person who identifies as spiritual but not religious typically believes in a greater authority; yet, they do not always perform rituals but instead try to deepen their awareness of both themselves and the environment that they exist in. Religion and spirituality have a tight relationship, and both usually practice kindness, consciousness, and purpose.
The Numerous Benefits of Spirituality
Our everyday activities, our responsibilities in the lives of our family and dear ones, and even how we view ourselves may all alter significantly as we become older. The likelihood of losing our autonomy and needing other people’s help in everyday life increases as we become older. Spirituality is significant to many individuals in their latter years for all of these and numerous additional reasons.
Improved Mental Health
Cognitive deterioration is slowed down by spirituality. A study came to the conclusion that participants’ cognitive problems tended to lessen or stabilize if they used their faith or spirituality more, through their beliefs, their activities, and in sustaining social relationships.
Enhanced Social Connectivity
Ones that have already been created tend to get better with spiritual activities, especially collective practices like belonging to a religious congregation, which might even make it simpler to form new relationships. A strong feeling of community can enhance psychological, emotional, and physiological wellbeing in later life in addition to lessening the negative effects of loneliness and despair.
Bereavement Aid
As we become older, the likelihood of losing family members and friends increases, making loss and our own death a bigger component of our lives. During these moments, the social ties that faith fosters can provide consolation and support. People who are having a hard time accepting their own mortality might greatly benefit from having a strong spiritual foundation.
Discovering One’s Purpose
In retirement, older persons may benefit from a sense of direction brought on by their spirituality. Because of retiring, a loss of autonomy, or a shift in their lifestyle, seniors frequently struggle with their identity. Seniors who practice spirituality may find a new sense of fellowship and calm in their lives, as well as the fulfillment they earlier had.
Physiological and Bodily Benefits
Studies show that those who are spiritually inclined live longer. According to reports, spiritual wellbeing helps prevent heart disease, hypertension, and high blood pressure. Additionally, spiritual people are more likely to engage in preventative screenings, exercise more, and eat healthier.
